Professional Branding And Reputation – Why It Matters

Personal branding is fast becoming part of the global lexicon. But it wasn’t that long ago that it wasn’t even on the radar in terms of business success and career progression. It’s exciting that people are really understanding the importance of ‘brand you’ and the role it plays in positioning you both personally and professionally. People understand how your personal brand affects the image you project to the world and therefore how others respond to you, react to you and engage with you.

Your signature brand is walking the talk, even when no one is watching.

Whether you’re leading a team, going for a job interview, meeting new clients or attempting to progress your career, it’s clear that your personal brand has a large role to play. What is less clear to people, though, is the way your personal brand keeps building you up (or down, as the case may be) even when you aren’t there. How does your personal brand benefit your business even when you leave that board room or office or hang up that phone call? Because personal brand and reputation are so intertwined that your brand, when implemented correctly, keeps working for you without you even realising.

Building a strong personal brand reputation along with your brand is how you develop trust.

This is how relationships are built which means people are more likely to trust not just you but the business or services that are related to you. This is exactly what will set you apart from others in your industry and this is what will get people talking about you and recommending you. This is what creates credibility, and this is what will make sure you are at the forefront of people’s minds when it matters.

Your brand is your reputation.

Your brand is what creates trust and credibility. It’s not something that can be bought or paid for or studied. It’s something that must be developed strategically. But it can’t be faked. Your personal brand is what happens when you let your authenticity shine through in a consistent way. Your brand isn’t just who you say you are, it must be backed up by everything you say and do.

So, how do you make sure your brand is always working for you?

Make some important decision about what your brand is and what you want to be known for. Make sure these core values are reflected in everything you do from the way you dress, to the way you communicate (and this includes all communication whether that’s social media, talking with more senior or junior colleagues, the way you sign off an email, how long you take to return a phone call…it all matters). Make sure the work you do reflects on your brand and projects the image you want to be known for. And then, let your brand build a strong reputation that will appeal to those you want to attract, whether it’s new customers, suppliers, contacts or colleagues.

Consistency is key and when it’s authentic, it should be effortless.

Let your personal brand guide you and you’ll see the opportunities open up before your eyes.

Like you, I understand the pressure of being an ambitious and busy professional woman. I am passionate about working with real women to achieve greater confidence, presence and influence. In my workshops and 1:1 private sessions, I learn about your goals and provide you with the tools and techniques to maximise your strengths, differentiate yourself, and elevate your professional presence for even greater success. If you’re ready to be empowered and take that next big step in your development, I’d love to work with you. For a no-obligation chat, call 0405 440 366.